We have developed a generic instrument for comprehensively rating the administration of the SSC and informing initiatives to realise its full potential. We have provided data supporting its capacity for discrimination, internal consistency and inter-rater reliability. Further psychometric evaluation is warranted.

No abstract

Introduction Undergraduates are capable of making valuable contributions to the medical sciences. At The University of Auckland, many students complete summer studentship projects. Anecdotally, students have enjoyed these projects, developed an interest in academia, and published peer-reviewed articles. This study aimed to i) determine the publication rate following the studentship programme from 2001-2013, and ii) identify factors correlated with publication. Methods Students completing summer studentships at the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland from 2001-2013 were identified. Seven databases were searched for articles with student and supervisor as named authors. Outcomes of interest were; i) publication within 3 years of studentship completion, ii) publication at any time, and iii) publication with the student as the first author. Results Over the 13-year period, 1345 studentship projects were completed, with 666 identified subsequent publications by 425 students. At 3 years follow-up after studentship completion, 22% had published, increasing to 32% at any time following studentship completion. Degree, department, and research category were all significantly correlated with successful publication. Conclusion Summer studentships provide New Zealand undergraduates with opportunities to make valuable contributions to science. Further investigation may facilitate improvement strategies and maximise benefits for students, supervisors,

No abstract

Background: Ethnic and rural disparities in medical treatment and outcomes have been demonstrated across a range of conditions, including colorectal cancer. Timely treatment and investigation of symptoms in patients with suspicion of cancer is likely to improve outcomes and patient experience. Achieving equity in timeliness of care is important in achieving the goal of equitable cancer outcomes outlined in the New Zealand cancer action plan. The aim of this study was to compare treatment times in patients with colorectal cancer, between M aori and non-M aori patients as well as urban and rural patients in Northland, New Zealand. Methods: All adult patients diagnosed with colorectal adenocarcinoma from 2011 to 2016 were identified using hospital coding. Further information on the primary cohort was then obtained using the hospitals electronic results system, CONCERTO. The primary outcomes of interest were differences in delays to treatment between M aori and non-M aori as well as Urban versus rural residence. Secondary outcomes of interest included rate of emergency admission and treatment by curative intent in different groups. Results: A total of 511 patients formed the primary cohort; 12% were M aori and were on average 6 years younger than non-M aori. M aori had a 6% higher emergency admission rate and a 5% higher rate of palliative treatment intent. No significant difference in treatment delay times was seen between different ethnicities or different domiciles. Conclusion: Ethnicity and rurality were not shown to affect treatment delays. Further research in this area is needed to help attain equitable outcomes for patients with colorectal cancer in New Zealand.